When it comes to background checks in the UK, potential employers can ask from when they will check employment records, but expect it to be a minimum of five years. The criminal background check is different, the DBS check has three main levels: basic, standard and improved. It depends on the function and nature of the company, but you can expect the verifications to be returned at least five years. The pre-employment evaluation involves a right to work check, a criminal background check, an employment background check, and professional references.
In cases where a candidate has not worked, an educational reference can be used. In other sectors, other checks are carried out, such as a credit check in the financial sector or a DVLA verification in the transport sector. Most UK employers will have implemented most (if not all) of the ten essential background checks throughout their hiring process. For people who want to do a background check on their partner, they should check the Clare Act and Sarah's Law (see “How to do a criminal background check on your partner in the UK”).
What Types of Background Checks Are Commonly Conducted?
Conducting background checks on new employees is a very common practice, and depending on the position, some checks may be a legal requirement.Background checks are a process used by employers to verify if the information on a candidate's resume is true. For example, some background checks can be processed instantly, such as the right to work, the UK credit check, the DVLA check, and international sanctions.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Conducting Background Checks
This step-by-step guide will help you carry out law-compliant criminal background checks and other types of background checks when hiring employees in the UK. No, as some employers may conduct background checks on all shortlisted candidates and job offers may be subject to satisfactory background checks.Data Protection Laws When Conducting Background Checks
It is important to note that employers must comply with data protection laws when conducting background checks. Employers must ensure that they have obtained consent from applicants before conducting any type of background check.Furthermore, employers must ensure that they are not discriminating against any applicants based on their race or gender.
